The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Caretaker Committee has called on the Edo government to make public the procurement procedure for the proposed flyover at Ramat Park, Benin.
Dr Tony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, said this at a news conference on Tuesday in Benin.
Aziegbemi alleged that the flyover recently flagged off by Governor Monday Okpebholo bypassed standard procurement procedures.
He urged the government to disclose the project’s cost, timeline, and the process by which contractors were selected.
“We are aware the emergency overhead bridge at Ramat Park bypassed all standard procedures.
“The project is a white elephant scheme to reward godfathers for subverting Edo people’s will during the gubernatorial election,” he said.
The chairman accused the governor of dismantling governance structures inherited from his predecessor, claiming the state’s Procurement Act was disregarded.
He criticised the delay in November salary payments despite the former administration left over ₦30 billion in the state’s coffers.
“For eight years, the PDP administration paid salaries on or before the 25th of each month. Today, civil servants await November salaries despite the funds left behind,” Aziegbemi added.
He also denounced the governor’s alleged attempt to disparage the EdoBEST programme, which he described as one of Africa’s most impactful education reforms.
He credited the PDP-led administration for successfully rehabilitating over 340 schools across Edo’s senatorial districts.
Reacting, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, dismissed PDP’s allegations, stating the party was struggling to adjust to its opposition role.
Itua accused the PDP of mismanaging resources, disrespecting traditional institutions, and distributing government assets to allies.
“Within one week, the governor has addressed issues the PDP ignored for eight years. He banned touting in markets and illegal revenue collection,” Itua said.
He highlighted the flyover bridge as a milestone for Edo State, emphasising the administration’s commitment to addressing long-standing challenges.
He warned that the public would soon learn the depth of the previous administration’s mismanagement.
According to him, records show the PDP-government gave away nearly 500 government vehicles to cronies.
“No blackmail will stop the recovery of Edo’s commonwealth,” he said.
(NAN)
